9th January 2025
We have more than a thousand reasons to love everything that comes from inside the Amazon Rainforest, and today, in this Harvest Chronicles, we are going to introduce a leaf that Indigenous People in Latin America have loved for thousands of years.
Guayusa (pronounced "gwhy-you-sa") comes from the leaves of the Ilex guayusa tree, an evergreen native to the Upper Amazon regions of Ecuador, Peru, and Colombia. The tree thrives in the rich, fertile rainforest soils, benefiting from the warm and humid climate. For generations, indigenous tribes, particularly the Kichwa people, have cultivated and harvested guayusa for its numerous benefits.
The cultivation of guayusa has significant environmental and economic implications. Guayusa trees are typically grown in agroforestry systems known as Amazonian Chakra, an ancestral and biodiverse system officially recognised as a #GloballyImportantAgriculturalHeritageSystem (GIAHS) by the #FoodandAgricultureOrganisation (FAO) of the #UnitedNations (UN).
These systems integrate various crops and native trees, enhancing soil fertility and preventing deforestation. They offer multiple benefits, ranging from food security and sovereignty to income generation, maintenance of cultural values, and social cohesion. By supporting guayusa cultivation, consumers contribute to preserving the Amazon.
A nutritional powerhouse
This remarkable leaf, lesser-known but equally significant as its cousin yerba mate, is now making waves worldwide for its unique properties and cultural significance. What sets guayusa apart from other herbal teas is its unique nutritional profile.
In addition to being rich in caffeine, guayusa contains theobromine (the same stimulant found in cacao and chocolate) and L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and mental focus. This combination of compounds makes guayusa an ideal choice for those seeking both energy and calm.
Moreover, guayusa is packed with antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and support overall health. It is also a source of essential vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, calcium, and vitamin C. This impressive nutritional content contributes to guayusa's growing popularity as a superfood.
Market Growth
Economically, guayusa provides a vital source of income for Indigenous farmers. The global demand for this unique tea has opened up new markets and opportunities, allowing communities to improve their livelihoods while maintaining their cultural heritage. Ethical and sustainable sourcing practices ensure that the benefits of guayusa production are shared fairly with local communities.
Amazonia Impact Ventures (AIV) supports a cooperative of #Kichwa farmers in the #Napo region of #Ecuador. Created in 2010, Wiñak has 263 farmers, the majority of whom are women. They collect, process, and sell Guayusa leaf and extract to companies in the United States and Germany. It is primarily used in teas and energy drinks, but also appears in loose-leaf extract capsules.
The global guayusa market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.6% from 2024 to 2029, reaching a value of USD 12.05 million by 2029 from USD 9.63 million in 2024. The key market drivers include the rising demand for natural and organic beverages, the growing preference for herbal teas, and the increasing consumer focus on health and wellness.
Way of life
For the Indigenous people of the Amazon, guayusa is more than just a beverage; it is an integral part of their cultural and spiritual life. Traditionally, the Kichwa people prepare guayusa tea in the early morning hours before dawn. They gather around a communal fire, sip the invigorating brew, and share dreams, stories, and plans for the day. This ritual is believed to provide not only physical energy but also mental clarity and spiritual guidance.
Guayusa is more than just a tea; it is a symbol of cultural resilience, environmental stewardship, and holistic health. As this remarkable leaf continues to gain recognition globally, it carries with it the traditions and wisdom of the Amazonian people. By embracing guayusa, we not only benefit from its unique properties but also support a sustainable future for the ecosystems of the Amazon.
Comentários